North Dakota is more than its vast horizons or fertile fields. It’s a state defined by the character of its small towns—close-knit communities built on connection, shaped by history, and surrounded by natural beauty. Life moves at an easier pace here, where front-porch hellos are the norm and main streets show off their local pride. Even the landscapes become part of the story. North Dakota. One state. Thousands of threads. One enduring tapestry—whether the population is 200 or 20,000. Here at Minot Apartment Homes, we want to highlight three of the state’s most charming small towns. Let’s dive in.
Medora: Gateway to the Badlands
Location: In the far southwest corner of the state, Medora is the only incorporated town in Billings County. It sits in the Badlands at the entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s South Unit, about 26 miles west of Dickinson along I-94.
A Postcard-Perfect Old West Town
With fewer than 200 residents, Medora is small in size but big in spirit. Wooden boardwalks, preserved 19th-century buildings, and the nearby Chateau de Mores offer a vivid taste of frontier life. Summer nights come alive with the Medora Musical, performed outdoors against the backdrop of painted canyons.
Seasonal Weather: There are four distinct seasons in Medora. Spring warms from frosty 30s to mid-70s as rains green the buttes. Summer peaks near 85 °F, perfect for hiking and golf. Autumn cools from the 70s to the crisp 30s before snowy winters settle in, with January lows hovering around 10 °F—ideal for cross-country skiing in the Badlands.
Cost of Living: Housing and groceries are notable bargains. Medora median home prices and groceries hover around $210,000—about 38% below the U.S. average—while grocery costs run roughly 24% less.
History Nugget: Home to the nation’s first “dude ranch,” founded in the 1880s by the Eaton brothers, Medora has long been a gateway to rugged adventure.
Walhalla: North Dakota’s “Little Switzerland”
Location: Near the Canadian border in Pembina County, Walhalla sits along the Pembina River, just five miles south of Manitoba and 45 miles west of Minnesota. If you’re looking for shopping and work outside of town, Walhalla’s close to regional hubs and the Canadian border.
Nature’s Playground
Walhalla’s nickname, “Little Switzerland,” comes from its steep, wooded hills, winding Pembina River, and the scenic Pembina Gorge—a landscape that reminded early European settlers of the Swiss countryside. Locals enjoy kayaking and hiking in the summer, vibrant foliage in the fall, and downhill skiing come winter. In town, you’ll find historic landmarks like the Walhalla State Historic Site and a warm welcome from its fewer than 1,000 residents.
Seasonal Weather: Spring climbs from near-freezing to mid-60s; while summers in Walhalla stay mild around 80 °F. Autumn eases from the upper 60s to the 30s, while winter holds its chill with January highs near 14 °F.
Cost of Living: Median home prices in Walhalla average about $195,000—roughly 42% below the national average—with food prices around 24% less.
Still Standing: Walhalla is home to North Dakota’s oldest surviving building, the Kittson Trading Post (1843), predating statehood by more than 40 years.
Minot: The Magic City
Location: About 110 miles north of Bismarck and 50 miles south of Canada, Minot lies along the Mouse River in Ward County, in the state’s north-central region.
A Community with Heart
Nicknamed the “Magic City” for its rapid early growth, Minot blends neighborly ease with the amenities of a regional hub. It’s historic downtown offers locally owned shops, diverse dining, and signature events like the renowned Norsk Høstfest. With under 50,000 residents, the city keeps its easygoing feel thanks to quick cross-town drives and a connected community spirit.
The Souris River weaves through parks and trails, nearby lakes draw year-round outdoor enthusiasts, and Minot State University adds cultural energy. Minot International Airport keeps travel accessible, while live music, family attractions, and seasonal festivals ensure there’s always something to enjoy.
Seasonal Weather: Weather in Minot: Spring warms from mid-30s to mid-60s; summer peaks near 82 °F with long daylight hours. Autumn slips from the 70s to the mid-30s before the snowy winters set in, with temps in the upper teens to low 20s.
Cost of Living: Minot’s cost of living is about 11% below the U.S. average, with with housing averaging around 28% less than the national average.
Scandinavian Roots: Each fall, tens of thousands flock to the Norsk Høstfest, a four-day celebration of Nordic heritage with authentic food, music, crafts, and cultural displays representing five countries.
Why These Towns Stand Out
While each community has its own distinct character, they share three defining traits:
● Authenticity–Deep-rooted pride and genuine connections.
● Connection to Nature–Badlands trails, prairie views, rivers, and farmlands always nearby.
● Welcoming Spirit–A handshake still carries weight, whether you’re a visitor or planning to stay.
These North Dakota towns reveal that the state’s heart beats strongest in its smaller communities.
If the city of Minot speaks to you, check out our apartment homes landing page highlighting our 4 beautiful Minot properties: Commons & Landings at Southgate, South Pointe Apartment Homes, The Chateau Apartment Homes, and The Plaza Apartment Homes.
These communities provide residents with a blueprint for the good life— comfort, style, spaciousness, and an impressive suite of amenities. Schedule a tour today of one of our 4 communities and discover the home you’ve been dreaming of. Visit the Minot Apartment Homes landing page to get started.
